Combination treatment with 150 W bipolar radiofrequency, infrared light, and ultrasound-induced lipolysis for thigh circumference reduction.

[BACKGROUND] A growing patient demand for a favorable body shape has led to the development of many new treatment modalities. Noninvasive devices were developed to improve body contour without physical intervention or scarring and with reduced downtime compared to surgical options such as liposuction.

[AIMS] This study examines combining radiofrequency, infrared light, and ultrasound-induced lipolysis for fat reduction and body contouring.

[PATIENTS/METHODS] Ten female subjects underwent a combination treatment with 150 W bipolar radiofrequency, infrared light, and ultrasound-induced lipolysis with two devices. A total of three treatments were done every 2 weeks. Data including weight, thigh circumference, patient comfort during the procedure, and fat thickness by skin caliper were collected at each visit. After the series of treatments, subjects and investigators reported satisfaction at 4-, 8-, and 12-week follow-up visits.

[RESULTS] At the 12-week follow-up visit, the average change in thigh circumference from baseline was -2.77 cm. The average change in fat thickness at the same time period was -0.14 cm. Self-reported scores of discomfort were low with most subjects reporting no pain to mild discomfort during the study. Treatments were well tolerated with mild erythema reports in 65% of treatments and mild heat in 17% of treatments. 78% of subjects and investigators reported being "very satisfied" at the 12-week follow-up visit, and 100% of participants reported that they would recommend this treatment.

[CONCLUSION] Combination treatment with 150 W radiofrequency, infrared light, and ultrasound-induced lipolysis is an effective method for reducing thigh circumference and noninvasive body contouring.